How Long Do I Have to Boil Water to Kill Germs?

Dear Home Ec 101: I live in Hurricane Country and there are often boiling water advisories after a storm. How long am I supposed to boil the water before it is safe to drink? ~Avoiding the Runs in Ravenel Dear Avoiding the Runs in Ravenel, Boil water advisories are more common than you may think. …

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Life Skills

Heather says: I am an avid reader, if I am seated, it would be a rare day indeed to not find me reading something. Yesterday I was trapped and the only thing in reach was my husband’s Popular Mechanics. No, I wasn’t there, I was in a parking lot waiting on Mr. Heather. The cover …

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Cooking Basics: Stir it up

Heather says: Never worry that a question is too basic or too “stupid” to ask. I was reflecting on simple techniques I’ve had to demonstrate in the past. If you are stirring anything you are worried about scorching, don’t just stir circles around the edge of the pot. Keep the spoon or spatula in contact …

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Super simple cream of broccoli soup

Heather says: A non-blogging friend of mine recently admitted that she has never attempted to make soup. After I picked my jaw off the ground, she does know her way around the kitchen, but she finds the idea of soup intimidating. I offered to hold her hand and walk her through a few recipes. You, …

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Sharing the frugal link love

Heather says: Are you feeling the pinch?  In our household when unexpected bills arise the first thing to get slashed is the food and budget, here are some great links for reducing your grocery bill. Remember not every tip fits every lifestyle.  Personally, I won’t feed my children ramen, but it may suit someone else.  …

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How to Use a French Press

Home Ec ladies, Do you know anything about making coffee with a French Press? I am not a coffee-drinker, but some caffeine addicts are staying with me this weekend, and I would like to provide them with a nice way to wake up in the morning. My French Press came with instructions on how to …

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mmmMushrooms: A contest

Heather says: This post is “sticky” and will remain at the top of the site until the deadline. Did you know that September is National Mushroom Month? In honor of this we are running a contest. We want your favorite recipe featuring this fab fungus. Portabella, shiitake, button, we don’t care, although I will not …

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Meatless Sloppy Joes

Heather says: This little number is easy on both the wallet and your waistline; it is also surprisingly filling.  I served it on onion rolls, but hamburger buns will do. ~  1 TBSP olive oil 1 small onion – chopped 1  medium bell pepper – chopped 2 ribs celery – chopped 2 carrots peeled and …

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Quick Tip: Cupcakes and muffins

Heather says: Did you know there is a standard measurement for the amount of batter?  When a recipe calls for the tins to be filled 2/3s full use 1/4 cup of batter.  If the tins are to be filled 3/4s use 1/3 cup of batter.   Some cooks use ice cream scoops in these sizes …

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